EXCLUSIVES

Growing up in Ft. Lauderdale, Non Point singer Elias Soriano didnt pass up many chances to see a concert. After a show, he took his place with other hardcore fans waiting by the tour bus to meet his musical heroes.

"I always appreciated the bands that took the time to say hello, sign autographs and answer questions. I couldnt stand it when they pulled that rock star bullshit, ignored everyone and ran to hide on their tour bus," says the singer of the hard rocking quartet.

The irony isnt lost on Soriano, who spends a lot of time riding on a tour bus. Nonetheless, he hasnt forgotten what its like to be the fan outside in the cold waiting for an autograph. Non Point stays in touch with fans through its Web site (http://www.nonpoint.com). There, fans can directly email each member - Soriano, guitarist Andrew Goldman, drummer Robb Rivera or bassist KB.

"Elias and I bought Powerbooks last year so we could answer email on tour," says Rivera, the soft-spoken hulk whos the muscle behind Non Points punishing rhythms. "Every time I log on to our message board, Im hit with 20 instant messages. Sometimes its a bit overwhelming, but Im glad people are interested in our music,"

Rivera and KBs steel-toed rhythmic foundation and Goldmans spiky guitar jags both underscore Sorianos refined rasp on the bands debut - "Statement" (MCA).

Rivera is confident Non Points angry but positive songs will distinguish it from the growing pack of anonymous hard rockers this summer when the band plays Ozzfest, an annual heavy metal festival founded by Black Sabbaths Ozzy Osbourne.

"We dont want to be a like every other third generation Korn-wannabe out right now," Rivera proclaims. "The bands with staying power have their own distinctive sound. We want to be that kind of band."